How do you apply for Medicaid in Texas?

Apply for Medicaid in Texas through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Texas Medicaid programs include Children's Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, and Texas Women’s Health Program. Medicaid is typically for people who get Supplemental Security Income or SSI.

1. Determine if you are eligible

   Look at the list of Medicaid programs on the Your Texas Benefits website to determine if you or a family member fit into one of those groups. Although states are required to provide Medicaid to eligible children under the Affordable Care Act, states can choose whether or not to cover adults.

2. Apply at the Health Insurance Marketplace

   Fill out an application during an open enrollment period, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Enrollment usually begins in November and ends at the end of December for health coverage beginning the following year. If specifics, such as your income or household size, change during the year, then you may qualify for special enrollment outside of that period.

3. Wait for approval from Medicaid

   Check the mail for a welcome package with your cards or for a denial if you are not qualified. If you see a doctor during your wait, then you may be eligible to have those bills covered.